“Saudi football has quality” - Portugal star talks up standard of the SPL after Cristiano Ronaldo bags his 901st goal
Portugal midfielder Ruben Neves has spoken highly about the standard of the Saudi Pro League after Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 901st career goal. The Selecao captain reached the 900-goal milestone while on international duty, scoring in their 2-1 win over Croatia in the Nations League. He scored in their 2-1 win over Scotland as well, despite playing only the second half.
Cristiano Ronaldo currently plays club football in Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr, having joined the club in January 2023. He has maintained his incredible numbers in the Middle East, scoring an impressive 62 goals in 68 games since joining the Saudi giants.
In July 2023, Ruben Neves joined the Saudi Pro League as well, moving to Al-Hilal from Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers. Neves has enjoyed incredible success with Al-Hilal, winning the Saudi Pro League title among other trophies.
After Portugal's 2-1 win over Scotland, Neves stated that the Saudi Pro League has plenty of quality. He said (via Independent):
“I have said this a few times - if you compare my GPS data from English football to Saudi football, I run even more, but with the difference that I run in 40 degrees [celsius]. I am in good shape physically. Both Cristiano and I proved today that Saudi football has quality.”
The midfielder was also asked about Ronaldo potentially reaching the 1000-goal mark in his career. He replied:
"With Cristiano, anything is possible."
Scotland international speaks about Cristiano Ronaldo's longevity
Scotland midfielder Ryan Gauld, who played at Sporting CP, where Cristiano Ronaldo's career began in full swing, recently spoke about the Portugal legend.
Gauld discussed his experience at the Portuguese club and claimed that Ronaldo is still an influential figure around Sporting CP. He also believes that the 39-year-old won't retire for as long as he can play and score goals at the elite level.
Gauld said (via GOAL):
"Ronaldo doesn't look like he's ready to give up any time soon. As long as there's a chance to play and a chance to score goals, I'm guessing he'll be there. I played at Sporting Lisbon, where he started out."
"He's obviously a hero around those parts. There are murals everywhere and that kind of thing. You won't find anyone saying a bad word about him. So, you can see why he wants to play as much as he can."
Ronaldo will be gunning for the 1000-goal mark before he eventually retires.